GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley

Welcome to the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley, your source for insights into international markets, government funding, foreign policy and global growth strategies. As a go-to source for companies and organizations seeking to expand their global footprint and funding, our podcast guests provide expert analysis through exclusive conversations with key decision-makers shaping the government contracting, global growth and risk assessment, and foreign policy. The podcast features in-depth discussions with current and former U.S. government officials, global business leaders, and foreign policy experts. We cover critical topics such as government procurement priorities, navigating emerging and frontier markets, and foreign policy developments. Each episode is focused on getting your team actionable insight for your global strategy. Gain a competitive advantage with expert insights on funding strategies, government priorities, partnership opportunities, and market intelligence that can position your organization for success. Whether you are an established government contractor, a foreign policy, or a business looking to expand globally, the Global Strategy Podcast equips you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in an evolving global landscape. About the Host The GovDiscovery AI Podcast is hosted by Mike Shanley, CEO of GovDiscovery AI (govdiscoveryai.com) and Konektid International (www.konektid.com). Mike hosts the GovDiscovery AI Podcast and regularly presents on best practices for government partnering at conferences and events globally. He has been invited to speak on government contracting and global growth strategies at U.S. government conferences, Johns Hopkins University, University of Denver (Korbel School of International Studies), British Expertise International, and the U.S. Embassy – London. Tune in to the GovDiscovery AI Podcast to stay ahead of global trends and unlock new growth opportunities. Resources: Govdiscoveryai.com http://www.konektid.com

Ep. 57 Scale AI & Future of Agentic Warfare 08/01/2025

Ep. 57 Scale AI & Future of Agentic Warfare Dan Tadross, Head of Public Sector at Scale AI, joins Mike Shanley to explore what Agentic AI Warfare might look like in the near future. The conversation covers AI interoperability with legacy systems, the evolving landscape of data sources and large language models (LLMs), and the significance of Meta’s $13 billion investment in this space. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: Scale LinkedIn: Dan Tadross LinkedIn: Scale X profile: Scale website: Scale YouTube: BIOGRAPHY: Dan Tadross is the Head of Public Sector at Scale AI, a dual use technology company that builds the infrastructure for the most ambitious artificial intelligence projects in the world. In this role, Dan oversees all aspects of Scale’s support to the U.S. public sector. Prior to Scale, Dan served 12 years on Active Duty in the Marine Corps where he was a founding member of the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC), a precursor to the Pentagon’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office. At the JAIC, Dan established the Joint Warfighting National Mission Initiative and led project Gargoyle, which focused on deploying Computer Vision for enhancing force protection. Prior to the JAIC, Major Tadross, an Air Traffic Control Officer, was hand selected as a member of the Secretary of the Navy’s Innovation Advisory Council, where he conducted independent research at the MITRE Corporation on integrating AI into Aviation Command and Control. His previous tours included Marine Air Tactical Command Squadron 18 in Okinawa, Japan where he served as the Senior Air Coordinator and supported exercises in South Korea, the Philippines, and Australia. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Old Dominion University and a Masters in Technology Management from Georgetown University. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/37628440

Ep. 56 Securing the future DoD Supply Chain, Peter Battaglia DLA 07/25/2025

Ep. 56 Securing the future DoD Supply Chain, Peter Battaglia DLA Peter Battaglia, Deputy Director of Mission Assurance at the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), joins Mike Shanley to discuss DLA’s priorities and initiatives in today’s evolving defense landscape. The conversation covers logistics surge capacity, securing the supply chain, and the role of NATO’s industrial base in supporting global readiness. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: DLA website: DLA Strategic Plan (2025-2030): BIOGRAPHY: Mr. Peter Battaglia is the DLA Mission Assurance Deputy Director serving as the DLA lead for Mission Assurance, Defense Critical Infrastructure, and Continuity of Operations Planning. He also serves as the Supply Chain Security and Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) Program Manager for DLA. In this position he is the expert technical authority responsible for oversight of the design, implementation, execution, and promulgation of DLA's SCS/SCRM Program for worldwide support of OSD, JCS, CCMDs, and Military Services plans and operations. He graduated from the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in 2021. He previously served as the Customer Relations Management Process Owner managing a portfolio of $7M and 800 personnel, including the Customer Interaction Center (helpline) and Customer Support Representatives interfacing with the supported services, combatant commands, and inter-agencies. Mr. Battaglia established and implemented the DLA Agency Synchronization Operations Center (ASOC). The ASOC synchronizes and integrates the Agency’s operational mission and business support functions to provide agile, global support to the Warfighter and select Federal Agencies. The ASOC provides Agency leadership and mission partners a shared and standardized view; enables operational support serving as the consensus source of truth among all mission partners; focuses the Agency on output, readiness, effectiveness, and service to standards; and provides the tools and actionable information to conduct root cause analysis, develop solutions and courses of action, and implement senior leader decisions. Mr. Battaglia also served as the Chief of the DLA Logistics Operations (J3) Director’s Action Group aligning the strategic efforts and messaging of the J3 and aligned Executive Directors to ensure DLA logistics support. Prior to this assignment, Mr. Battaglia strategically assessed DLA Customer Support by evaluating the DLA personnel laydown and functions resulting in $21M savings across the FYDP. He served as the Medical Materiel Executive Agent (MMEA) Analyst for DLA, orchestrating and synchronizing medical logistics for the complete range of military and whole of government missions such as utilization of non-FDA approved medical materiel and transportation policies allowing commercial narcotic shipments. Mr. Battaglia was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and hails from Herndon, Virginia. He received his Masters in National Security and Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School in 2021 and his LOGTECH MBA, Logistics and Technology, from the Kelly School of Business, Indiana University in 2010. He received his undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia in 2000. His wife, two children, and semi-classic BMW hobby serve to keep him busy while not working. Mr. Battaglia has received the DLA Meritorious Civilian Performance Award (2011) and the DLA Superior Civilian Performance Award (2020 and 2005). LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/37525420

Ep. 55 NATO 5%: Opportunities for Industry BD and Growth Teams 07/23/2025

Ep. 55 NATO 5%: Opportunities for Industry BD and Growth Teams Jeffrey Grieco, President & CEO of the Afghan-American Chamber of Commerce and Advisory Council Member at ISOA, joins host Mike Shanley to talk about the NATO 5% spend target and what it means for business development and growth teams in the government services sector. They discuss the current European security situation, how NATO’s increased investment impacts contractors, and the growing opportunities for industry BD teams. Grieco also shares takeaways from the ISOA Europe & ATO Bucharest Conference, and why now is a pivotal moment for companies to engage. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: BIOGRAPHY: Jeffrey J. Grieco, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Afghan-American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and International Stability Operations Association (ISOA) Advisory Council Member and Chair of the ISOA Ukraine and Greater Middle East Working Groups. Mr. Grieco has served on the AACC Board of Directors since 2011 and has served as President and CEO since 2017. He travels to Afghanistan and the region frequently and speaks on behalf of the AACC at major donor and government events, think tanks and AACC Afghanistan-related private sector programs and conferences. He is also a Board Member Emeritus of the ISOA and currently serves on its Advisory Council. Mr. Grieco also serves as an independent foreign policy consultant with senior leadership experience within the U.S. Government and private sector providing a unique mix of leadership in the areas of: foreign policy, national security, international business development, U.S and international government relations, Congressional and public affairs and international assistance. As a consultant, he provides international investment, banking, finance and government relations services to multinational corporations and global non-profit organizations. Utilizing an extensive network of professional contacts, Mr. Grieco meets frequently with Administration and Congressional leadership and professional staff concerning U.S. and international assistance policies. He is a frequent speaker and panelist at foreign policy, national security, Congressional hearings and international development conferences. Mr. Grieco has also led his own businesses and consulted for Fortune 500 companies in international business development, foreign direct investment and associated government relations services for companies including: AT&T, Raytheon, Westinghouse ESG, Lucky Goldstar, Hyundai Motors, General Dynamics, and many more. In addition to maintaining language proficiencies in French and Korean, he has technical expertise working within international markets in such sectors as defense, ICT, manufacturing, air transportation systems and services, agriculture, energy development and finance. As a U.S. Senate-confirmed Presidential Appointee he served as Assistant Administrator for Legislative and Public Affairs at the U.S. Agency for International Development/U.S. Department of State until 2009. Mr. Grieco managed all agency global communications, media and public affairs and U.S. Congressional relations through a particularly difficult period in the post-9-11 foreign policy environment and was involved in standing-up the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), PEPFAR and various other successful Presidential Initiatives. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/37505360

Ep. 54 Startups & Innovation in the Defense Market 07/18/2025

Ep. 53 AI & Future of Defense Sales: New BD and Capture Models 07/16/2025

Ep. 53 AI & Future of Defense Sales: New BD and Capture Models Todd Marks, Founder & CEO of Mindgrub, joins Mike Shanley to discuss how AI can be leveraged for Defense sales, anticipating DoD customer intent, relationship building and proposal development, and determining growth investment priorities. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: Todd Marks LinkedIn: BIOGRAPHY: Todd Marks, a teacher-turned-technologist, is at the forefront of digital innovation as the Founder and CEO of Mindgrub Technologies. Since 2002, Marks has guided Mindgrub to become a leader in AI solutions, mobile and web development, and emerging technologies, earning a coveted spot on the Inc. 5000 list for ten consecutive years. Under Marks' leadership, Mindgrub has delivered award-winning projects for industry giants like NASA, Under Armour, and DELL, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. His strategic vision and technical expertise have driven Mindgrub's remarkable expansion, establishing it as a formidable presence in the tech industry and attracting a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients. A sought-after futurist and speaker, Marks shares his insights on AI and technology at conferences across North America. His expertise is further recognized through multiple accolades, including two EY Entrepreneur of the Year nominations and three Most Admired CEOs awards from The Daily Record. Marks extends his influence beyond Mindgrub, serving as the Emeritus Executive Board Chair for the Maryland Technology Council and Chair of YPO Northeast One. His commitment to fostering technological advancement is evident in his active participation on various tech council boards. With a unique blend of educational background and technological acumen, Marks continues to drive innovation in AI, robotics, and mixed reality applications. His work not only shapes the future of technology but also inspires the next generation of tech leaders. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/37414195

Ep. 52 Innovation Bottleneck: Is Bureaucracy AI’s Biggest Hurdle? 07/09/2025

Ep. 52 Innovation Bottleneck: Is Bureaucracy AI’s Biggest Hurdle? Chris Watson, Vice President of Premise Data, joins Mike Shanley to discuss how AI innovation and federal procurement intersect, and what changes could facilitate greater innovation. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Premise Data: https://premise.com/ Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: BIOGRAPHY: Chris Watson is an evangelist for digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and increased use of commercial products in the global development industry. He currently leads Premise Data’s international development division, with a focus on scaling the use of Premise by country governments, development donors, and their implementing partners. Growing up in West Virginia, Chris became interested in issues of poverty, grassroots development, and the world outside his hometown. He began his international development career in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where he distributed $38 million in emergency seed and fertilizer to farmers returning to areas recently liberated from Taliban control. Not knowing whether this work had a real impact ignited his obsession with using real-time data collection and analytics to improve the efficacy of development programming. Over the last eight years, Chris has helped define and grow the use of Premise by stakeholders in global health, humanitarian assistance, and democracy and governance. He led go-to-market for the international development portfolio, securing support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to prove the value of Premise’s technology and subsequently scaling its use to 70+ development donors, implementing partners and governments. Chris and Premise deeply believe that local citizens should have an increased say in defining the challenges and improving development in their local communities. Shifting the task of collecting data and monitoring service delivery to thousands of local residents as gig work democratizes involvement in such issues while providing a supplementary source of income. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/37333340

Ep. 51: National Security and Meteorology with Sunny Wescott, Chief Meteorologist 07/03/2025

Ep. 50: Jim Carroll, Professional Services Council (PSC) CEO 06/27/2025

Ep. 50: Jim Carroll, Professional Services Council (PSC) CEO Jim Carroll, President & CEO of the Professional Services Council (PSC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss how PSC is helping federal contractors navigate a shifting federal market. The conversation covers national security trends, PSC’s direct engagement with Congress and the White House, and how AI and innovation are shaping the future of defense acquisition. Resources: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: BIOGRAPHY: The Hon. Jim Carroll became Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Professional Services Council (PSC) on May 19, 2025. As CEO, Jim is responsible for advocating for the interests of companies that provide cutting-edge solutions and services to the government. Under his leadership, PSC is shaping public policy, leading strategic coalitions, and establishing communications between government and industry — all with a focus on best outcomes and results for the government and the American taxpayers. Carroll brings over 30 years of relevant government and industry experience, including service across multiple federal departments and agencies, and a Fortune 25 corporation. He has been appointed by two U.S. Presidents to senior positions and was unanimously confirmed by the Senate. Jim is widely recognized as a trusted leader with a well-documented track record of bipartisan collaboration and strategic policy influence. Prior to joining PSC, Jim Carroll was a Partner at the law firm Frost Brown Todd (FBT) in Washington, D.C., and served as a Principal at CivicPoint, FBT’s public affairs subsidiary. He advised clients on a wide range of government enforcement and compliance matters, from internal reviews to high-profile investigations. From 2018-2021, Jim served as Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), leading efforts to address the national opioid crisis. Under his leadership, the United States recorded its first year-over-year decrease in overdose deaths in three decades. He oversaw the coordination of a $35 billion annual budget across 16 federal agencies. A seasoned policy strategist, Jim Carroll has testified before Congress multiple times, successfully securing funding and driving policy advancements in areas such as public health, law enforcement, and federal procurement. He is widely respected for his ability to navigate complex legal frameworks and government regulatory issues. Carroll’s deep relationships with senior decision-makers across federal agencies, the White House, and Capitol Hill uniquely position him to help influence and shape policies. His ability to foster bipartisan dialogue and deliver meaningful results has been consistently demonstrated throughout his career. From 2016 to 2018, Jim held several high-profile roles at the White House, including Principal Deputy Chief of Staff, Deputy White House Counsel, and General Counsel of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. Earlier in his career, during the George W. Bush Administration, Jim held various senior roles, including Associate Counsel and Special Assistant to the President before becoming the Deputy General Counsel and Acting General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Treasury. He also held key positions within the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Policy and the Executive Office for United States Attorneys. In the private sector, Carroll spent a decade with the Ford Motor Company, where he served as Washington Counsel and Global Director of Compliance. Under his leadership, Ford was recognized by the Ethisphere Institute as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” for three consecutive years. He also served as General Counsel for the Ford Motor Company Fund, the company’s philanthropic arm. A team builder and servant leader, Jim is known for cultivating high-performing teams that prioritize stakeholder needs and deliver results. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/37168225

Ep. 49 - Accelerating national security action with unique tech: Matt Petit, Vannevar Labs 06/20/2025

Ep. 48 - Changing Federal Market with David Berteau, PSC CEO 05/20/2025

Ep. 48 - Changing Federal Market with David Berteau, PSC CEO David Berteau, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Services Council (PSC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss the federal funding market. The conversation focuses on the shifting federal market, new opportunities, and strategies for government contractors. Specifically, the following topics were discussed in this episode: Budget Message to PSC members The role of congress key takeaways - federal growth implications for current and prospective federal contractors Common and uncommon aspects of this transition RFPs and bid process RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: BIOGRAPHY: Mr. Berteau became the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Services Council (PSC) on March 28, 2016. With more than 400 members, PSC is the premier resource for and advocate of the federal government contracting industry. As CEO, Mr. Berteau focuses on legislative and regulatory issues related to government acquisition, budgets, and requirements by helping to shape public policy, leading strategic coalitions, and working to improve communications between government and industry. PSC’s goal is to improve outcomes and results for the government through better use of contracts and contractors. Prior to PSC, Mr. Berteau was confirmed in December 2014 as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics and Materiel Readiness. He oversaw the management of $170 billion in Department of Defense logistics funding. Previously, Mr. Berteau served as Senior Vice President at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where his research and analysis covered federal budgets, national security, management, contracting, logistics, acquisition, and industrial base issues. He also held senior positions in industry and the federal government. Mr. Berteau is a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration and a Director of the Procurement Round Table. He has been an adjunct graduate school professor at Georgetown University, at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, and at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/36625250

GovDiscovery AI Podcast - Understanding the 2026 Discretionary Budget Request 05/09/2025

Ep. 47 Changing Federal Funding Market Series Episode II - Monica Harris, former Senior IT Acquisition Advisor, DHS 04/24/2025

Ep. 47 Changing Federal Funding Market Series Episode II - Monica Harris, former Senior IT Acquisition Advisor, DHS Monica Harris, former DHS Senior IT Acquisition Advisor, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the federal funding market. The conversation focuses on how evaluation criteria are determined, government's evaluation and award process, proposal tips, and how to influence before the RFP drops. Resources: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: BIOGRAPHY: Monica Padron-Harris recently retired (Nov 2024) from DHS USCIS as a Sr. IT Acquisition Advisor supporting the Office of Technology (OIT) and the Office of Contracting (OCON). She was responsible for preparing and identifying the most effective procurement strategies for OIT’s portfolio. This included determining the evaluation factors, contract vehicle, business size (full and open or set aside), authoring the RFI questions and answers, and preparing the procurement documentation to support the decision. This included the evaluation plan, market research, Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE), and Acquisition Plan approvals. She also served as a technical advisor on the source selection panel. As an IT acquisition consultant with over 30 years of experience in a variety of Federal agencies (21 years at DoD/Navy), Monica specializes in identifying strategic acquisition targets and understanding the federal contracting marketplace, specifically within DHS. She spent the last 12+ years at USCIS as a Contracting Officer, Sr. Procurement Analyst (Policy), and Sr. IT Acquisition Advisor to the senior leadership team within OIT and the Office of Contracting. She has an intimate knowledge of the industry landscape within the DMV and specifically within DHS. Monica has excellent external and internal relationships within the Federal landscape and understands the importance and value of industry intelligence. She has the “inside” perspective of industry partners, expertise, and value to ensure partnerships are comprised of the best teaming arrangements to have the highest PWIN. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/36244460

Ep. 46 Changing Federal Funding Market Series Episode I - Christy Hollywood, Business Development Consultant 04/03/2025

Ep. 45 IMF & Uncertain Global Markets 04/01/2025

Ep. 45 IMF & Uncertain Global Markets Elizabeth Shortino, Former Acting U.S. Executive Director at the IMF, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the role of the IMF and U.S. Executive Director, how the IMF assesses political risk, IMF engagement in emerging and frontier markets, and insights for business expanding into new markets. BIOGRAPHY: Elizabeth Shortino recently served as the Acting U.S. Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), an international financial institution charged with promoting international monetary and financial stability and growth. In this role, Ms. Shortino represented the United States at the IMF Executive Board and advanced U.S. interests on a range of issues, including IMF lending to strategic countries such as Argentina, Egypt, Pakistan and other; IMF surveillance of global markets and growth; and all IMF institutional and policy issues. Prior to working at the IMF, Ms. Shortino spent 20 years in public service at the U.S. Treasury and the Office of Management and Budget covering international economic and development issues. She served as Director for the International Monetary Policy office and led Treasury’s staff engagement and coordination on all G7 and G20 Finance Track issues, including communique negotiations, designing and advancing the U.S. agenda for its p. Ms. Shortino also oversaw the Treasury stance on all IMF policy issues and country lending programs. Prior to this role, Ms. Shortino managed the Office of Middle East and North Africa and helped coordinate an international response amongst the G7, Gulf partners, and international financial institutions to support countries undergoing democratic transitions as part of the Arab Spring. She also oversaw U.S. Treasury economic engagement in strategic countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, and negotiated U.S. sovereign loan guarantees to several Middle East countries. Prior to joining the U.S. Treasury, Ms. Shortino worked at the Office of Management and Budget covering international and defense spending and served as a management consultant for Cap Gemini and at Ernst & Young. Ms. Shortino holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Masters in International Studies from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/35934190

Ep. 44 - Trump II: USAID and Foreign Policy Priorities 02/25/2025

Ep. 44 - Trump II: USAID and Foreign Policy Priorities James Richardson, former Director of the Office of Foreign Assistance, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the Role of the State Department under Trump II, foreign assistance priorities, budget implications, and intra-government coordination. BIOGRAPHY: James “Jim” Richardson is the Executive Director to the 70th Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, working various ventures and programs. He is also the Executive Chairman of The Pompeo Foundation, a 501c(3) dedicated to thoughtful discussion and education on some of the world's toughest challenges. He was previously Director of the Office of Foreign Assistance at the U.S. Department of State. On behalf of the Secretary of State, he coordinated $35 billion in foreign assistance across the State Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), ensuring policy, performance, and budget alignment. He was also responsible for foreign assistance strategic planning, policy, and monitoring and evaluation standards. Prior to that, Mr. Richardson served as Coordinator of USAID’s Transformation Task Team. He led the historic reorganization to reshape the Agency around the principle of ‘Ending the Need for Foreign Assistance,’ establishing new Bureaus, policies, processes, and workforce solutions. Concurrent with his role on Transformation, Jim was Assistant to the Administrator in USAID’s Bureau for Policy, Planning and Learning (PPL). He was responsible for agency-wide strategic planning, policy development, monitoring and evaluation standards, and international donor coordination. With over 25 years of private and government service, Mr. Richardson spearheaded numerous complex operations and developed an extensive public policy and legislative process background. He served as Chief of Staff for then-Congressman Mike Pompeo (KS-04) —overseeing Congressman Pompeo’s offices in Washington, DC, and Wichita, Kansas. He also worked with the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee for Congressman Todd Tiahrt (KS-04), the House Armed Services Committee for Congressman Jim Ryun (KS-02), and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for Senator John Ashcroft (R-MO). He began his government career with Senator Christopher “Kit” Bond (R-MO). Mr. Richardson holds a Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies from Missouri State University and a Bachelor of Science in Government from Evangel University. He also graduated from the United States Air Force Air Command and Staff College (ACSC). LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/35382200

Ep. 43 Dr. Alma Golden, former USAID Assistant Administrator for Global Health: Trump II USAID Global Health Priorities 01/28/2025

Ep. 43 Dr. Alma Golden, former USAID Assistant Administrator for Global Health: Trump II USAID Global Health Priorities Dr. Alma Golden, former USAID Assistant Administrator for Global Health, joins Mike Shanley to discuss Trump II USAID funding priorities, what will be similar and different than Trump I, opportunities for new partners, and USAID and global health overall. RESOURCES: Contact Dr. Alma Golden at Women’s Optimal Health Framework DRC Midwifery Centers Africa Consortium for Quality Improvement Research BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Alma Golden is a pediatrician who currently serves as COO and Director of Global Health for the Institutes for Women's Health. Previously she served as the Senate-Confirmed Presidential Appointee to lead the Bureau for Global Health in the United States Agency for International Development in Washington, DC. In that role, she oversaw the USAID Global Health response to the COVID pandemic, directed the Offices of Maternal and Child Health, HIV/ AIDS, as well as other critical health programs. Previously (2002-2006) she served under President George W. Bush in Health and Human Services leading the Office of Population Affairs which included adolescent health, teen pregnancy, abstinence education, and family planning. She has been instrumental in developing evidence-based guidance and research related to adolescent health risks, parenting, and training of medical and education professionals. Her career has included private pediatrics, indigent health services, academic medicine (University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, and Texas A&M University), healthcare administration, adolescent health, and national and international public health policy. She began her professional career as a 7th grade Life Science teacher before entering medicine and has remained active in education as well as medicine. Dr. Golden is a proud grandmother and active in her community and church. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34996155

Ep. 42 - Alice Albright, CEO, Millennium Challenge Corporation 01/14/2025

Ep. 42 - Alice Albright, CEO, Millennium Challenge Corporation Alice Albright, CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss MCC's role in US foreign policy, key MCC accomplishments, future countries and sectors of work, and how organizations can partner with MCC. RESOURCES: - MCC LinkedIn: - MCC Instagram: - Doing Business with MCC: - MCC Business Forecast: - Procurements on BIOGRAPHY: Alice P. Albright is the Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Challenge Corporation where she provides strategic leadership and vision to the agency helping deliver on programmatic priorities. Ms. Albright has more than 30 years of international experience in the private, non-profit and public sectors. Prior to MCC, Ms. Albright served as the CEO of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). As a political appointee of the Obama Administration, between 2009 and 2013, she was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank). Beforehand, she was the Chief Financial and Investment Officer for the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI). Prior to working in international development and government, Ms. Albright was a banker focusing on emerging markets, working principally at J.P. Morgan. Ms. Albright has served on two G7 Gender Equality Advisory Councils, appointed first by the President of France for the 2019 G7 and subsequently by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for the 2021 G7. Additionally, she has served on the Boards of Williams College and Mercersburg Academy. Ms. Albright received her MIA from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and her BA from Williams College. She is a Chartered Financial Analyst and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34835540

Ep. 41 Election Results: USGLC on the future of America's Global Leadership 01/07/2025

Ep. 41 Election Results: USGLC on the future of America's Global Leadership Liz Schrayer, President & CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss election results, takeaways, and USAID funding, the impact on foreign aid and partners, USGLC analysis of results and Impact 2024 work, and what actions listeners can take. Resources Join your state Advisory Committee or become a coalition member Interested? Email Alex Grant at or Dana Bruce at USGLC’s Global Impact Forum – June 9 & 10, 2025 Follow USGLC on social media @USGLC and join their email list at USGLC.org BIOGRAPHY Liz Schrayer serves as President & CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), a broad-based coalition of over 500 businesses and NGOs that advocates for strong U.S. global leadership through development and diplomacy. Under her leadership, the USGLC has grown to a nationwide network of advocates in all 50 states and boasts a bipartisan Advisory Council that includes virtually every living former Secretary of State, and a National Security Advisory Council consisting of nearly 200 retired three and four-star generals and admirals. Ms. Schrayer currently serves on the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation’s Development Advisory Council, USAID’s Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid (ACFVA), as well as several advisory boards and committees for the University of Michigan, including the Ford School of Public Policy. She is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. In addition to running the USGLC, Ms. Schrayer serves as President of Schrayer & Associates, Inc., a nationwide consulting firm founded in 1995, which works on a wide range of domestic and international issues. Prior to starting her own firm, Ms. Schrayer served as the national Political Director of AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) for more than a decade. She worked on Capitol Hill, founding the Congressional Human Rights Caucus and in state government. She has traveled across the country organizing citizen advocates in every state. Ms. Schrayer has been published in TIME, Newsweek, USA Today, and The Hill, among other outlets. She has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and resides in Maryland with her husband Jeff Schwaber, an attorney who helped launch the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34746530

Ep 40: USAID Market Annual Year End Show 12/17/2024

Ep 40: USAID Market Annual Year End Show Sabrina Amburgey, Vice President of Business Development at ACDI/VOCA, Udunopa Abalu, Director of New Business at the International Development Group, Velora Loughmiller, Chief Business Development Officer at Blumont, and Christy Hollywood, Chief Operating Officer at Konektid International join Mike Shanley to discuss 2024 market trends, local partner engagement and how contractors can serve in Localization agenda, sustainability plans, and look ahead to the aid market in 2025. BIOGRAPHIES: provides leadership to business development at ACDI/VOCA, a US nonprofit that helps people and communities improve their lives by increasing economic prosperity and social inclusion. She has over 25 years of experience in international development in various business development, technical, and project management roles focused on food security, resilience, market systems, agriculture, capacity strengthening, and democracy and governance. As a board member and Global Guidelines Working Group lead for the Agribusiness Market Ecosystem Alliance (AMEA), a global network for accelerating the professionalization of farmer organizations and agri-SMEs, she was instrumental in drafting the recently published ISO18716 Professional Farmer Organization Guidance. is currently Director of New Business at the International Development Group Advisory Services, LLC (IDG), a rapidly growing international development organization works to reduce global poverty through sustainable and inclusive economic development. Udunopa brings over 10 years of experience in new business development and strategic partnerships, development economics, international trade, and private sector development. Prior to IDG, Udunopa worked for Kaizen - A Tetra Tech Company, Improving Economies for Stronger Communities (IESC), KeyLime International, OFED International, and O’Neill Paragon Solutions. Udunopa also consulted for the International Labour Organization (ILO). Udunopa has lived and worked in Nigeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Brazil. She holds an M.A. in International Trade and Investment Policy from George Washington University and a B.S. in Economics and International Studies (with minors in Political Science and Speech Communication) from Iowa State University. During her personal time, Udunopa enjoys reading, bicycling, hiking, traveling, cooking, Zumba, yoga, and meditation. She is also a member of the Association of Women in International Trade. is a leader in strategy, planning, and business development based on two decades of work across the USG, including USAID, Departments of State, Agriculture, Defense, and Energy, as well as an array of bi- and multi-lateral partnerships. When it comes to market analysis, she’s a firm believer that it takes a healthy combination of deep-dive data analysis and leveraging your network, and equally enjoys catching up with colleagues over coffee or nerding out over CBJ details. Velora holds a master’s in European studies, bachelor’s in geography, and is a certified project management professional (PMP). Based in the DC area for fifteen years, you’ll find her enjoying local and regional outdoor haunts for great hiking; continuing to hone covid-era learned skills of bread and candy making; and trying out the many types of cuisine the area has to offer. supports Konektid clients and consultants with skills honed during 20+ years of leadership in international development, professional services, and consulting organizations. She led a successful consulting firm of her own for 11 years. Earlier, she served as Vice President for BD of Cardno (a large USAID and MCC contractor, since acquired) and held pivotal business development roles at KPMG’s Emerging Markets Group, RTI International, PATH, as well as Fidelity Investments and Noblis. A recognized expert in business development consulting, she’s authored several articles and is five-time invited presenter at international conferences on proposal management, competitive intelligence, and business development. Resources LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34487395

Ep 39 - Stacey Young, USAID Chief Knowledge Officer: Knowledge Management, AI, & the new KMOL Policy 12/03/2024

Ep 39 - Stacey Young, USAID Chief Knowledge Officer: Knowledge Management, AI, & the new KMOL Policy SHOW NOTES Stacy Young, Chief Knowledge Officer at USAID and Melissa Patsalides, Senior Advisor for Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning, join Mike Shanley to discuss Knowledge Management, AI, and the new Knowledge Management and Learning Policy at USAID. RESOURCES where people can find the BIOGRAPHY Stacey Young, PhD is USAID’s first Chief Knowledge Officer (formerly Agency Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning Officer), leading Agency-wide knowledge and learning approaches. Dr. Young also co-chairs the Multi-Donor Learning Partnership of 11 major donor organizations working to advance organizational learning and knowledge management in international development.From 2011-2019, she served as a Senior Learning Advisor for USAID's Bureau for Policy, Planning and Learning. Through her vision and leadership, USAID developed a holistic approach to Collaborating, Learning and Adapting (CLA) that is integrated across USAID’s country programs. Part of a long-term Agency effort to more firmly anchor USAID programs in strong evidence and local leadership, CLA is acknowledged as leading the field in learning and adaptive management for international development. She also served as the Senior Technical Advisor for USAID’s first Agency-wide learning agenda, on the Journey to Self-Reliance. Dr. Young joined USAID in 2003 as the Senior Knowledge Management Advisor for USAID's Microenterprise Development office, where she led an award-winning knowledge management program to facilitate learning in microfinance, market development and poverty reduction. She also led the development of USAID’s congressionally mandated poverty measurement tools; managed the congressionally mandated Microenterprise Results Reporting activity; and co-led an external affairs portfolio to support USAID’s engagement with Congress and industry groups around microenterprise development and poverty reduction.From 1993-2003, Dr. Young lived and worked in Kenya, Uganda and the US as an independent consultant specializing in research and policy analysis in philanthropy, development policy, HIV/AIDS and family planning, and agriculture and food security.Dr. Young has published several books and articles on development and knowledge management, and has taught political science, women's studies and writing at Skidmore College and at Cornell University, where she earned a PhD in Government. Melissa Patsalides is an international development professional with more than 20 years of experience inside and outside of the federal government. Currently she serves as a senior advisor for knowledge management and organizational learning in the Bureau for Planning Learning and Resource Management at USAID. She leads a practice group that supports implementation of USAID’s new KMOL policy, advances agency practices around data use and performance and collaborates deeply with the USAID’s Chief Information office on IT systems that support KM. In the past year and a half, she has focused on artificial intelligence and exploring ways to leverage it for KM at the agency level.Throughout her career, Patsalides has worked across various sectors and geographic regions, and has served in various leadership roles at USAID, including Director of the Office of Learning, Evaluation and Research (LER), Agency Evaluation Officer and Deputy Director of the Office of Strategic Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation in the Office of Afghanistan and Pakistan Affairs. Prior to joining USAID, she worked with international human rights and advocacy NGOs and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in West Africa. Patsalides holds a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School and a Master of Arts in International Development from the Joseph Korbel School for International Studies at the University of Denver. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34269750

Ep. 38: President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate 11/27/2024

Ep. 38: President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female elected head of state in an African nation and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate joins Mike Shanley to discuss the role of aid donors, localization, and women and development. This episode was recorded live at the Society for International Development-US Annual Dinner on 13 November 2024. BIOGRAPHY: Internationally known as Africa’s “Iron Lady,” President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is a leading promoter of peace, justice and democratic rule. She grew up in the Liberian capital of Monrovia, where she married and had four sons. President Johnson Sirleaf later moved to the United States where she earned an accounting degree from the Madison College of Business and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. In her efforts to bring justice to her people in Liberia, she has spent more than a year in jail at the hands of the military dictatorship of General Samuel Doe and had her life threatened by former President Charles Taylor. She campaigned relentlessly for Taylor’s removal from office and played an active and supportive role in the Transitional Government of Liberia as the country prepared for elections in October of 2005. President Johnson Sirleaf was a presidential candidate in the 1997 Liberia general election where she finished second in the field of 13. Before that, she served for five years as Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa of the United Nations Development Program as Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations and was the first woman to lead the United Nations Development Project for Africa. She served as the Chairperson of the Governance Reform Commission of the National Transitional Government of Liberia until she resigned in March 2004 to accept the nomination of the Unity Party of Liberia as the party’s leader. In November 2005, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was elected President of Liberia and became the first woman to lead an African nation. In the elections she defeated popular world-class soccer star George Weah with an impressive 59.4 percent of the vote. In October 2007, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civil award, for her personal courage and unwavering commitment to expanding freedom and improving the lives of people in Liberia and across Africa. And in 2010, as the only female and African Head of State, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was named by Newsweek Magazine as one of the World Top Ten Leaders. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . You can learn more about the Society for International Development-US online . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34112816

Ep 37: Dr. Jerry Brown, TIME Magazine Person of the Year, Ebola Response, Global Health, and Aid Donors 11/20/2024

Ep 37: Dr. Jerry Brown, TIME Magazine Person of the Year, Ebola Response, Global Health, and Aid Donors Dr. Jerry Brown, TIME Person of the Year, joins Mike Shanley to discuss Dr. Brown's work during the Ebola crisis, COVID-19 response and lessons learned for global pandemic preparedness, becoming TIME Person of the Year, and the role of international aid donors and implementing partners. Co-host: Care Africa Medical Foundation (CAMF) focuses on building clinics in rural Liberia, starting with their hometown of Buchanan in Grand Bassa County, where they have organized free health fairs to provide essential health resources. In addition to their nonprofit efforts, Henry and Gormah run successful businesses that cater to the aging population and assist the homeless in Colorado, creating over 60 local jobs. CAMF plans to open its first medical center in Grand Bassa County in the spring of 2025, addressing urgent healthcare needs. However, the lack of reliable electricity poses a significant challenge to operating medical equipment. As a registered 501(C)(3) organization, CAMF aims to make a lasting impact on healthcare in Africa and inspire others with its dedication to health and community service. Biography Jerry Fahnloe Brown was born on October 18, 1968. Dr. Brown has worked in several capacities as physician. He worked as Escort Doctor for MERCI on boats repatriating Sierra Leonean Refugees back to Sierra Leone. He then worked as the County Health Officer for Grand Bassa County and Medical Director for the Buchanan Government Hospital from 2006 to 2008 after working as a Volunteer Physician at the ELWA Hospital and General Practitioner from 2004 to 2006. In March 2014 he was employed as Medical Director and General Surgeon at the ELWA Hospital a position he held until February 2018 when he was appointed by the President of Liberia to serve as the Chief Medical Officer of the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, the premier teaching and referral hospital. During those years at ELWA, he worked tirelessly performing varieties of surgeries in this low resource setting. He became Clinical Supervisor and Clinician at the ELWA II Ebola Treatment Unit from July 2014 to June 2015. Under his leadership and guidance this unit produced the highest number of Ebola survivors changing the survival rate from ten percent to seventy percent of Ebola Patients at his Center. From October 2014 to December 2016, he served as Principal Investigator on two research projects with the Clinical Research Management on convalescent plasma and the sequelae of Ebola in survivors. In 2018, he was appointed by the President of Liberia as the Chief Executive Officer of the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, the premier referral hospital in Liberia, a position held until January 30, 2024, due to the political transition of power. While at JFKMC, he established the only active functional Intensive Care Unit in country with support from partners such as Project Cure International and NOCAL. Under his leadership JFKMC, obtained accreditation for training specialists in the areas of pediatrics, internal medicine, general surgery, ophthalmology and psychiatric. He also established the only histopathology unit; a state of the art executive private ward; a dialysis center among others. On May 23, 2019, he was elected Civilian Representative and Advisor to APORA. He also serves as Acting Faculty Head, Department of Surgery, A. M. Dogliotti College of Medicine for two years, and is currently a Part-Time Faculty member, in the Department of Surgery, Liberia College of Physician and Surgeon. In March 2020, he was appointed by the president of Liberia to serve as the Head of the National Case Management Pillar of COVID-19. He coordinated the management of COVID-19 patients across the country and the care of patients with COVID-19 vaccine related complications. He supervised the drafting of Liberia COVID-19 Clinical Guidelines. Dr. Brown has received many honors to include, Time Person of the Year in 2014; among Time 100 Most Influential Persons, 2014; Civil Servant of the Year, 2014, Republic of Liberia; President of Liberia Highest Honor, Star of Africa in 2015; Golden Key Awards, 2018; He has spoken as several places to include Keynote Speaker, PICC 2016, 8th World Congress on Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care, Toronto Canada, June 2016; keynote Speaker, Case Western University, Ohio, October 2015; Keynote Speaker, Risky Business Conference, London, UK, May 2017; Speaker, American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, (ASTMH) 64TH Annual Meeting, ASTMH Ebola 360 symposium, October 2015; Pepperdine University, Dean Honorary Speaker—Leadership June 2017. Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. Learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team, message the host Mike Shanley on /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/34020657

Ep. 36: Bill Steiger, former USAID Chief of Staff: Partnerships and Innovation at USAID 10/22/2024

Ep 35: UK Aid Market Funding & Elections Update 10/15/2024

Ep 35: UK Aid Market Funding & Elections Update Aron Cronin, Managing Director and Anthony Gardner, Principal Consultant at GIC Limited, join Mike Shanley to discuss the UK Aid Market and the impact of the elections. RESOURCES Subscribe to the FCDO Supplier Portal, enabling you to receive its weekly supplier engagement newsletter free of charge . BIOGRAPHIES Aron Cronin established GIC Limited in 1991 where he is the Managing Director responsible for the firm and its services. Previously he led the London international development practice at Touche Ross Management Consultants (now Deloitte Consulting). He is an established consultancy practitioner who brings over 40 years’ experience of planning and management of studies and projects in advanced and emerging market countries, most recently in relation to economic diversification and growth, private sector development and increased access to finance. He is a widely recognised authority on the correct application of the financing, tendering and procurement procedures of DFID (where he held an interim Private Sector Development Adviser position), FCDO, the EBRD and other major donors He has wide training and mentoring experience in Proposals and Tender Dossiers preparation and Monitoring and Evaluation and has led numerous tailored in-house seminars and strategy development workshops internationally. He leads and now concentrates on the firm’s Bid Management service line working with client organisations to strengthen their new business acquisition, bidding skills and capacities and has authored several official guides to effective business development and tendering processes. Tony Gardner spent over 40 years as a member of the UK Department for International Development (DFID) as a development and procurement professional. A longtime member of the Chartered Institute for Purchasing and Supply, he was the Head of the Procurement Department, leading a large department responsible for contracts worth over £1bn per annum. His last post with DFID was as deputy head of the Kenya office from 2014-17. He joined GIC Limited in January 2018 to work on the firm’s Bid Management service line. As a consultant, he provides significant advice in contract tendering and management, notably value for money, risk management, due diligence, and capacity building. He has wide training and mentoring experience and leads tailored seminars and strategy development workshops. Aron and Tony are currently concentrating on developing training and support to the provider market to respond to the changes in UK LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/33393812

Ep 34: AI in Federal & USAID markets: Where are we at and what’s next? 10/01/2024

Ep 34: AI in Federal & USAID markets: Where are we at and what’s next? Geoff Buteau, Director of Booz Allen Hamilton AI Practice and Saeed Uri, SVP for the Sustainable Development Impact Lab at Chemonics International join Mike Shanley to discuss AI in Federal & USAID Markets. Specifically, this episode covers: - Status of AI in USAID market - Status and applications in Federal market - AI beyond GenAI - Ideas for USAID AI applications RESOURCES BIOGRAPHY Mr. Buteau is an Artificial Intelligence technical delivery consultant and project manager with more than 19 years of experience in the defense and public sector. Geoff leads the Booz Allen Hamilton's ML Ops delivery portfolio across defense, civil, and law enforcement agencies, which includes product management, the management of technical build and integration teams, AI requirements development, and AI business, technical, and ethical risk analysis for US federal agencies. Geoff’s work in Booz Allen’s AI practice also includes investment initiatives in AI strategy, responsible AI, and emerging technology scouting. Geoff holds a BS in Journalism and Public Relations from Ithaca College and a Master of Int’l Affairs with a focus in development economics and management analytics from the Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs. ---- Saeed Uri is Chemonics’ senior vice president for impact. He has more than fifteen years of experience managing development projects, including more than ten years in complex, high-speed, and challenging positions in fragile or transitional environments such as Iraq, Syria, Palestine, Sudan, and Libya. While leading Chemonics’ efforts on adaptive programming in dynamic environments, Saeed also spearheaded the adoption of innovative approaches and technologies to achieve greater impact. In Syria, Saeed led Chemonics’ partnership with the Syria Civil Defense (also known as the White Helmets) to provide emergency response services to millions of civilians. Most recently, Saeed led programming to strengthen community resilience against climate and other sources of instability by working with local partners to increase community involvement in addressing issues. Saeed also has expertise in supporting early recovery and durable returns, and countering disinformation. He holds an M.A. in international peace and conflict resolution and speaks Arabic fluently. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/33264932

Ep 33: USAID & Small Businesses: Kimberly Ball, Director, OSDBU 09/24/2024

Ep 33: USAID & Small Businesses: Kimberly Ball, Director, OSDBU Kimberly Ball, Director of USAID's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization joins Mike Shanley to discuss small businesses and localization, success in using small businesses, how to connect with OSDBU, and what's next. RESOURCES: BIOGRAPHY: Kimberly Ball serves as the Director of the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). USAID/OSDBU coordinates the Small Business Program and is the initial point of contact at USAID for all categories of U.S. small businesses. USAID/OSDBU also oversees USAID’s efforts to increase the participation of Minority Serving Institutions of Higher Education in USAID-sponsored programs and activities. Prior to joining OSDBU in 2008, Ms. Ball served as a Contract Specialist in USAID’s Management/Office of Acquisition and Assistance (M/OAA). During her ten year stint in M/OAA, she supported the Global Health (GH), Europe and Eurasia (E&E), Economic Growth and Trade (EGAT), Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) Bureaus and M/OAA’s Policy Division. She ended her M/OAA career as a Contracting Officer and Team Leader supporting various divisions in the DCHA Bureau. Prior to joining USAID, Ms. Ball worked as a contract negotiator with the United States Air Force. As a civilian employee of the U. S. Air Force, Ms. Ball served at Nellis Air Force Base, Gunter Annex and Bolling Air Force Base. She began her career with the U.S. Air Force as a Palace Acquire Intern. Ms. Ball holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Hampton University. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: and . To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on . /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/33169142

Ep 32: USAID Market Chat with Christy & Chuck 09/10/2024

Ep 32: USAID Market Chat with Christy & Chuck Konektid Chief Operating Officer, Christy Hollywood, and CEO of Pope International and former Senior USAID staff member, Chuck Pope, discuss key trends in the USAID market and the impact of the upcoming election. The discussion included insight on USAID solicitation delays; localization; new partners and barriers to entry into the USAID Market; and the potential impact of the election on USAID. QUOTES 4:42: “USAID is continuing to broaden their definition of what local inclusion and new partners look like. Also starting to make sure missions have access to ways to engage with local organizations more systematically”. – Christy Hollywood 5:42: “We’re seeing both USAID and implementing partners look at capacity strengthening beyond just compliance and proposals, which is a really nice change, especially as USAID continues to try to lower barriers to entry. – Christy Hollywood 6:47: “Whatever happens, localization is here to stay…it makes sense.” – Chuck Pope BIOGRAPHY Christy Hollywood: Christy Hollywood supports Konektid clients and consultants with skills honed during 20+ years of leadership in international development, professional services, and consulting organizations. She led a successful consulting firm of her own for 11 years. Earlier, she served as Vice President for BD of Cardno (a large USAID and MCC contractor, since acquired) and held pivotal business development roles at KPMG’s Emerging Markets Group, RTI International, PATH, as well as Fidelity Investments and Noblis. A recognized expert in business development consulting, she’s authored several articles and is five-time invited presenter at international conferences on proposal management, competitive intelligence, and business development. Chuck Pope: Charles S. “Chuck” Pope is a recognized global leader of acquisitions and agreements and is a formerly commissioned Foreign Service Officer and warranted senior Contracting/Agreement Officer for USAID. Chuck is a development professional with over a quarter century of experience on four continents working for the US Government and implementing partners (contractor/recipient). /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/32942832

Ep 31: Chemonics President & CEO on the Aid Market: Jamey Butcher 08/27/2024

Ep 31: Chemonics President & CEO on the Aid Market: Jamey Butcher Welcome to The Aid Market Podcast, where international development and humanitarian aid organizations connect to learn about funding trends and market insight. Join us as we hear from foreign aid leaders with USAID and other large donors, with updates and insight on their work. We explore topics including localization, artificial intelligence, proposal and grant funding best practices, and analyze data sources like the USAID Business Forecast. The Aid Market podcast is your comprehensive guide to positioning your organization for success and securing vital funding from USAID and other foreign aid donors. Each episode features in-depth conversations with esteemed guests, including current and former Senior USAID officials, executives from prominent foreign aid partner organizations, and influential thought leaders in the field. Together, we delve into the pressing issues of international development and humanitarian aid, shedding light on the latest trends, strategies, and best practices. Stay informed and gain a competitive edge as we explore key topics such as funding strategies, donor priorities, partnership opportunities, and effective approaches to navigating the complex aid landscape. Our podcast equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions and unlock new avenues for funding. The Aid Market Podcast is your trusted and comprehensive source for actionable insights and expert advice. Tune in now and join us on this journey to maximize your organization's potential and make a lasting impact on the global stage. ABOUT THE HOST: The podcast is hosted by Mike Shanley, Founder and CEO of Konektid International and AidKonekt Data, the leading USAID partner support firms that help clients to grow their USAID funding portfolios. Mike has nearly two decades of experience in working with USAID projects and funding opportunities. His USAID funding expertise has been recognized by the largest aid and development associations, partners, and conferences, including by USAID, Devex, British Expertise International, AidEx, and by the Society for International Development-US where he also serves as Board Member. Konektid International Konektid has a decade of experience supporting new and established USAID partners to accelerate and streamline their business development work. Konektid’s global team of seasoned USAID market specialists can provide surge support for your USAID proposal development, design and support your USAID market entry or growth strategy, and support other USAID partnering needs to help your team better work with USAID. AidKonekt Data AidKonekt is the trusted funding intel software for USAID partners. AidKonekt allows partners to easily monitor funding changes and track their pipeline. It also streamlines USAID market intel research, capture reports, competitor insight, and much more. Accelerate your USAID partnering with AidKonekt today! Websites: Konektid International: www.konektid.com AidKonekt Data: https://www.aidkonekt.com/usaid-biz-dev Connect with Mike Shanley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konektid-usaid-specialists/ The Aid Market Podcast, foreign aid, funding trends, market dynamics, USAID, foreign aid donors, international development, humanitarian aid, funding strategies, donor priorities, partnership opportunities, aid landscape, podcast, actionable insights, expert advice, maximize organization's potential, global stage. /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/32760302

Ep 30: USAID and Localization: Progress Report and What’s Next 07/29/2024

Ep 30: USAID and Localization: Progress Report and What’s Next Senior Advisor for Localization in the Office of the USAID Administrator, Sarah Rose joins Mike Shanley to discuss how localization and locally led development works within USAID. Sarah explains how USAID measures success and why partnerships and working with local communities is critical to meeting their goals. She explains how USAID partners with major global aid donors and how they fit within the broader US Government foreign policy context. Sarah shares some success stories where USAID has been able to make an impact utilizing localization and what she is looking forward to seeing in the future. Tune in to learn more about the work USAID does and how partners can continue to drive success. IN THIS EPISODE: [1:09] What do the terms localization and locally led development mean to the teams of USAID? [3:10] How has localization shifted across administration and how does USAID implement the priorities? [8:50] How does USAID measure success of localization work? [13:38] What are the changes around locally led development and humanitarian response? [18:35] What are some challenges that USAID has faced while trying to implement some ambitious localization activities and priorities? [21:20] How does USAID work with major global aid donors? [23:50] How do USAID partners fit into localization? [29:23] How does Sarah see USAIDs role fitting into the broader US Government foreign policy context? [31:38] Sarah shares some success stories where localization has worked. [37:11] What is the difference with how USAID and DC headquarters work with localization and partners overseas? [42:00] What are some of the future projects and partnerships Sarah is excited about and how will USAID measure success? [49:20] What are some key takeaways Sarah would like partners to walk away with from this conversation? KEY TAKEAWAYS: Local ownership and local leadership is critical for effectiveness and for sustainability. Locally led development is important for greater effectiveness, greater sustainability, and importantly for greater equity in development and humanitarian work. A joint commitment between USAID and their partners is important because no one team has all the answers or all of the tools or systems. It’s critical that everyone works together toward a common goal and that they learn from one another. QUOTES: [22:38] “This joint commitment is really important because individually none of us has all the answers or all the tools, so it’s really critical to make sure that we’re working toward common goals and to learn from one another as we go as well.” - Sarah Rose [30:37] “If we’re talking about investments that we hope will be effective in advancing these priorities, thinking about locally led development is the best way to ensure that our investments, or to maximize the possibility that our investments will really help support some of these lasting development issues or really strengthen local systems to do. That ends up being a really important criteria or context as well.” - Sarah Rose [51:49] “We also very importantly and crucially need to continue to be able to listen to those local communities, stakeholders, governments, etc on how they want this to continue to look.” - Sarah Rose RESOURCES: BIOGRAPHY: Sarah Rose is the Senior Advisor for Localization in the Office of the USAID Administrator. Prior to coming to USAID, she was a policy fellow at the Center for Global Development, where her research focused on US development policy and aid effectiveness, including localization. Previously, Sarah was a monitoring and evaluation specialist in the health office of the USAID Mission in Mozambique. She also worked at the Millennium Challenge Corporation in the Department of Policy and Evaluation. /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/32306322

Ep 29: Ambassador Mark Green: Former USAID Administrator, President & CEO of the Wilson Center 07/24/2024

Ep 29: Ambassador Mark Green: Former USAID Administrator, President & CEO of the Wilson Center Former USAID Administrator and President & CEO of the Wilson Center, Mark Green joins Mike Shanley to discuss various topics around USAID. Mark explains his role as the USAID Administrator and the importance of USAID. He talks about humanitarian funding and how it affects long term development funding. Mark describes the war in Ukraine, and what it has been like to be the feet on the ground when tragedy strikes and how USAID is needed. Mark shares his advice for the next administration, explaining where more support is needed. Lastly, Mark talks about initiatives and programs that don’t have broad political support, and why that support is needed. Tune in to learn more about USAID and how their work impacts all areas of the world. IN THIS EPISODE: [1:33] What does Mark say to those who question the role or need for USAID or Foreign AID? [4:24] What are the priorities in the role for USAID, MCC and other foreign aid? [8:03] Mark discusses how the initiatives that he started have evolved or developed with the current administration. [12:50] How does Mark see humanitarian funding affecting long term development funding? [18:45] How did they frame the alternative development models offered by China as developing priorities and going through the procurement process? [23:18] What is the current state of the war in Ukraine? [30:47] What did a typical day look like for Mark as the USAID Administrator? [32:56] What did Mark look for to help him make the right decisions in his leadership role? [39:26] What would Mark’s advice be for the next administration? [41:05] What are some of the initiatives, activities or programs that don’t have broad, political support in the U.S.? KEY TAKEAWAYS: USAID helps to grow partners, foster relationships, and build the capacity of other nations to join with USAID and take on their country’s challenges. The American dream isn’t just the American dream. It’s the universal dream, and we have to make sure that we invest in that, and that’s where development assistance comes in. USAID largely goes unnoticed, but they are essential to the work the U.S. does in other countries. They are the feet on the ground and they make huge impacts with their partnerships in other countries. QUOTES: [1:48] “When I first began, I was asked by outsiders why USAID matters. I said, look, if we do this right, foreign assistance and development assistance can help us address just about every one of our foreign policy challenges.” - Ambassador Mark Green [13:01] “There is a real danger that humanitarian assistance will begin to cannibalize development assistance, and some of it is completely understandable. Humanitarian assistance responds to emergency needs, and there are emergencies right now, perhaps greater than we’ve ever seen, so it’s natural.” - Ambassador Mark Green [39:27] “I think the administrator has to sharpen the tools in the toolbox, and then it is the White House, it's the President and the Secretary of State that will help to guide where those tools are deployed and for what end. I believe that development tools can be used to help address just about every challenge that we see in the world today. They aren't by themselves necessarily the answer, but they're part of the answer. And I think that’s key.” - Ambassador Mark Green RESOURCES: BIOGRAPHY: Ambassador Mark Green (ret.) serves as the President and CEO of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, an institution chartered by Congress to “strengthen the fruitful learning between the world of learning and the world of public affairs.” He has served as the Administrator of the US Agency for International Development where he used America’s development and humanitarian tools to help countries on their “journey to self-reliance.” He also served as Executive Director of the McCain Institute and President/CEO of the International Republican Institute. Green served as the U.S. Ambassador to Tanzania (mid-2007 to early 2009), and before that, he served four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Wisconsin’s 8th District. He has been honored for his work by the Republics of Tanzania and Colombia, and institutions including the Scowcroft Institute at Texas A&M and Georgetown University. /episode/index/show/517b954b-3b8f-4874-9473-7e1337803ab7/id/32245527

GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley

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